Sock

ABSTRACT

This disclosure relates to a sock for substantially covering a foot or footwear. The sock has a wall defining an opening and a recess, the opening leading to the recess. The wall has an inside surface and an outside surface and is flexible, elastic and waterproof.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to footwear, and more specifically tosocks to be worn on a person's feet or over a person's shoes or boots.

The invention has been developed primarily for use in hospitals and homecare. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limitedto these particular fields of use.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A variety of socks to be worn on a person's feet are known. The mostcommonly available type of sock is made primarily of natural orsynthetic fabric, and is normally used to cover the foot beforeinsertion into external footwear, for example, a shoe or boot, toprovide cushioning, comfort, warmth and/or fluid absorption. This typeof sock is often elasticised to facilitate a snug fit and may beslippery on smooth or wet surfaces. Socks are not usually intended to beworn without or on the outside of external footwear.

Some socks comprise slip-reducing pads or slip-reducing material locatedon the sole of the sock, for example socks designed to be worn indoorsand without external footwear (e.g. bed socks).

Waterproof socks are available, such as those intended for users thatengage in wet or outdoor activities, for example skiing or hiking. Thistype of sock is designed to be worn on the inside of external footwear,for example ski boots or hiking boots, to provide padding, comfortand/or shock absorption. Some waterproof socks include three layers: awaterproof outer layer, a cushioning middle layer and a waterproof innerlayer.

Shoe or boot covers are available that are waterproof or water-resistantand slip-reducing and are commonly made of PVC, latex, or polypropylene.They are used for the protection of footwear and the lower legs fromwater, dirt, mud or other contaminants that may be located on the groundor floor, or to protect floors from water, dirt, mud or othercontaminants that may be located on the person's shoes. Shoe or bootcovers are used in a number of environments, including surgical, medicaland clean rooms, laboratories, chemically hazardous environments andconstruction sites. Different materials and designs of shoe or bootcovers cater for the type of contaminant to be avoided and its method ofdelivery (e.g. by direct contact or gas). Disposable shoe or boot coversoften have an elasticised opening to keep the shoe or boot cover on theuser's foot. Reusable shoe or boot covers are often made of relativelythicker and more durable material which reduces elasticity of theoverall cover making it difficult to don, hence requiring a largeropening to compensate. These designs usually result in the shoe or bootcovers being unable to provide a watertight or contaminant-tight sealwhen in use. While these shoe or boot covers protect from water, dirt,mud and other contaminants underfoot, they do not protect from water,dirt, mud and other contaminants that may enter through the opening.

Elderly or physically impaired people may fall in wet and slippery areassuch as in a bathroom or shower, and the impact from the fall is likelyto cause injury, sometimes severe. Slip-reducing mats and stickers arecommonly available for affixing to the floor of a wet area to preventpeople from slipping over. For areas that are regularly wet or moist,however, these semi-permanent mats or stickers may not be hygienic. Thisis a particular issue in showers and bathrooms in public use, such as inaged care facilities, hospitals, gymnasiums and hostels. Furthermore,being adhered to a constantly wet surface may cause the mat or stickerto be dislodged or slip over time. The mat or sticker can also wear out.

The present invention seeks to provide a sock which will overcome orsubstantially ameliorate at least some of the deficiencies of the priorart, or to at least provide an alternative.

It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred toherein, such reference does not constitute an admission that theinformation forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, inAustralia or any other country.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the invention a sock is providedcomprising a wall defining an opening and a recess, the opening leadingto the recess, the wall having an inside surface and an outside surface,wherein the wall is flexible, elastic and waterproof.

Advantageously, the flexibility of the sock allows the sock to be wornover a person's foot or footwear in relative comfort. The elasticity ofthe sock allows for the sock to be relatively easily donned yet stillwell fitted over a person's foot or footwear. A well fitted sockprevents the user from potentially tripping over loose folds of the walland also allows the foot to maintain its tactile sense through the wall(provided the wall is sufficiently thin). The waterproof wall of thesock prevents water, dirt or other contaminants from permeating throughthe sock, thus protecting the user's foot or footwear from thesecontaminants in use.

Advantageously, when worn over shoes, boots or other footwear, the sockmay help prolong the life of the footwear.

Preferably, the wall is made from one or more materials.

Advantageously, the selection of one or a combination of materialsallows the characteristics or properties of the wall of the sock to betailored for a specific purpose.

Preferably, the one or more materials include substantially naturalrubber latex.

Preferably, the one or more materials include substantially syntheticrubber latex.

Preferably, the one or more materials include substantially a solutionof rubber.

Preferably, the one or more materials include silicone.

Advantageously, the above mentioned materials have suitable materialproperties for footwear including flexibility, elasticity,imperviousness to water and strength in tension.

Preferably, the one or more materials include substantially virginpolyvinyl chloride.

Advantageously, virgin polyvinyl chloride has suitable materialproperties for footwear and is a substitute for users who are sensitiveto or have become sensitised to rubber or latex products.

Preferably, the wall can be sterilised substantially without damagingthe one or more materials.

Advantageously, this allows the sock to be used in applicationsrequiring sterility, for example in clean rooms, surgical rooms orlaboratories. This feature allows use by multiple users where asterilisation process takes place between uses.

Preferably, the wall insulates.

Advantageously, this allows the sock to be used more comfortably in coldenvironments or on cold surfaces.

Preferably, the wall is UV resistant.

Advantageously, the sock will not be significantly damaged or degradedby exposure to UV radiation, for example, when used or stored outdoors.

Preferably, the wall is electrically non-conductive.

Advantageously, in situations where the user may be in danger of cominginto contact with an electrically conductive surface, for example a wetsurface, the user might be protected from being electrocuted.

Preferably, the wall provides improved grip.

Advantageously, this provides the sock with extra grip for applicationswhere the user may be in danger of slipping and/or falling. This isespecially advantageous if the environment is hazardous to the user orif user is likely to be injured as a result of falling, for example, ifthere are sharp objects on the ground.

Preferably, the wall is biodegradable.

Advantageously, this mitigates the sock's polluting impact on theenvironment, when it is disposed. This feature is particularly suitablefor disposable socks.

Preferably, the thickness of the wall is between 0.05 mm and 5 mm.

Preferably, the thickness of the wall is between 0.17 mm to 2.09 mm.

Advantageously, the wall thickness allows the sock to be sufficientlystrong, durable and protective, while maintaining sufficient flexibilityand elasticity.

Preferably, the opening is adapted to form a watertight seal against theuser's foot, ankle or leg in use.

Preferably, the opening comprises a cuff adapted to form a watertightseal against the user's foot, ankle or leg in use.

Preferably, the cuff comprises a gathered collar.

Advantageously, this allows the sock to be used in applications wherethe user's foot may come into contact with water, vapour or othercontaminants which may otherwise enter the sock through the opening, andprotects the user's foot or other footwear from the contaminants.Furthermore, this protects the inside surface of the sock from becomingslippery or uncomfortable, which may occur if water, vapour, or othercontaminants enter the sock through the opening.

Preferably, a bottom region of the outside surface of the wall comprisesa sole portion.

The sole portion of the sock can be tailored with at least onecharacteristic or feature that is different from the surrounding wallregion to enhance the functionality and/or comfort of the sock.Furthermore, mimicking the natural shape of the foot allows the sock tobe better and more securely fitted to the user's foot, thus improvingcomfort and stability.

Preferably, the sole portion comprises a ball portion and a heelportion, such that in use the ball of a user's foot is locatedsubstantially over the ball portion, and the heel of a user's foot islocated substantially over the heel portion.

The ball portion and the heel portion sustain the most wear in terms ofcontact with the ground or floor and can be tailored with at least onecharacteristic or feature that is different from the surrounding regionto enhance the functionality and/or comfort of the sock. Provision of aball portion and a heel portion further mimics the natural shape of thefoot.

Preferably, the recess comprises an upright portion and a substantiallyhorizontal portion, the opening being located at a top end of theupright portion, a bottom end of the upright portion being connected toa first end of the substantially horizontal portion and a second end ofthe substantially horizontal portion being closed.

The position of the opening will vary depending on the height of theupright portion to protect greater or lesser amounts of the foot, ankleand/or lower leg. For example, if the sock were intended to be used tocover a boot, providing a tall upright portion ensures that the entireboot is contained within the sock and hence protected. A tall uprightportion may also allow a fracture cast or wound dressing to be coveredand thus sealed, for example, when the person has a shower.

However, if the sock were intended to be used to cover a person's footfor the purposes of providing added grip to possibly reduce the risk ofslippage, providing a short upright portion allows the lower leg to beexposed for greater comfort.

Preferably, the second end of the substantially horizontal portionincludes a toe portion adapted to receive the user's toes.

Preferably, the wall includes one or more slip-reducing portions.

Advantageously, the slip-reducing portions may provide extra gripagainst the surface on which the user treads. This may reduce the riskof slipping and/or falling. This may be advantageous if the environmentis hazardous to the user or if the user is likely to be injured as aresult of falling, for example, if there is hard furniture near or ifthere are sharp objects on the ground.

Preferably, the wall includes one or more textured portions.

Advantageously, the textured portion(s) are an easily manufacturedmethod of producing a slip-reducing portion(s).

Preferably, at least one of the one or more textured portions is locatedon the sole portion.

Advantageously, the textured portion(s) is provided on the portion ofthe sock that comes in contact with the surface on which the usertreads.

Preferably, at least one of the one or more textured portions is locatedat the ball portion.

Preferably, at least one of the one or more textured portions is locatedat the heel portion.

Preferably, the one or more textured portions comprises two or moretextured portions and wherein at least one of the two or more texturedportions is located on the ball portion and another of the two or moretextured portions is located on the heel portion.

Advantageously, the textured portions are provided on the portions ofthe sock covering the portions of the user's foot on which the userplaces the most weight and utilizes to maintain balance, stability andmobility, and which thus require the most friction with the surface onwhich the user treads.

Preferably, at least one of the one or more textured portions is scoredwith lines.

Advantageously, scoring with lines is an easily manufactured method ofproviding texture.

Preferably, at least one of the one or more textured portions comprisesa plurality of ridges.

Advantageously, providing ridges is an easily manufactured method ofproviding texture.

Furthermore, the location of the ridges on the portions of the sock thatcome into contact with the surface on which the user is treadingprovides added traction if the surface has small crevices, cracks orunevenness, as the ridges mechanically engage with the crevices, cracksor unevenness. An example of such a surface is a tiled surface such ascan be found in bathrooms and showers. In this case, the ridges may slotinto the crevices between the tiles.

Preferably, at least one of the ridges is orientated substantiallylongitudinally with respect to the sole portion.

Advantageously, the longitudinal ridges provide a large amount oftraction in the lateral directions.

Preferably, at least two of the ridges intersect.

Advantageously, the orientation of ridges in more than one directionallows the sock to provide increased traction in multiple directions,and also increases the likelihood that the ridges will mechanicallyengage with crevices or depressions in the surface on which the user istreading.

Preferably, the width of the ridges is between 0.5 mm and 10 mm.

Preferably, the width of the ridges is between 2.1 mm and 4.3 mm.

Advantageously, the ridges are provided having widths that are able tomechanically engage with common crevices, such as between tiles, cracksor unevenness that are likely to be encountered on the surfaces on whichthe user treads. Furthermore, the widths of the ridges are not so narrowas to lack rigidity and/or strength, which could reduce the amount oftraction provided.

Preferably, the height of the ridges is between 0.5 mm and 10 mm.

Preferably, the height of the ridges is between 2 mm and 3.6 mm.

Advantageously, the ridges have heights that are sufficient formechanical engagement with crevices, such as between tiles, cracks orunevenness that is likely to be encountered on the surfaces on which theuser treads. Furthermore, the heights of the ridges are not so high soas to cause the ridges to get stuck in crevices or cracks and becomedifficult to dislodge, or to hamper movement or cause discomfort to theuser.

Preferably, the wall includes one or more durable portions adapted to berelatively more durable than the surrounding wall regions.

Advantageously, this reduces the likelihood of the wall rupturing withwear, allowing the sock to be used in applications wherein the sock islikely to encounter a high rate of wear, for example on rough surfacesor surfaces with sharp objects, such as a construction site, or to covershoes or boots that are rough or sharp.

Preferably, the one or more durable portions have a greater thicknessthan the surrounding wall region.

Advantageously, this is an easily manufactured method of producingdurable portions.

Preferably, at least one of the one or more durable portions is locatedon the sole portion.

Preferably, at least one of the one or more durable portions is locatedon the toe portion.

Preferably, at least one of the one or more durable portions is locatedon the heel portion.

Advantageously, the durable portions are provided on portions of thesock that encounter the most wear.

Preferably, the wall includes one or more flexible portions adapted tobe more flexible than the surrounding wall region.

Advantageously, the flexible portions allow for the sock to be easilydonned and to be comfortable when worn.

Preferably, at least one of the one or more flexible portions surroundsthe opening.

Advantageously, the opening can be sufficiently stretched to receive thefoot or footwear and allow the sock to be easily donned.

Preferably, at least one of the one or more flexible portions is locatedat the toe portion.

Preferably, at least one of the one or more flexible portions is locatedat the heel portion.

Advantageously, the portions of the sock that are stretched the most dueto the shape of the respective portions of the foot or footwear areflexible to cater for the user's comfort when wearing the sock.

Preferably, the sock comprises a facilitation portion that is adapted tofacilitate donning.

Advantageously, the sock can be donned with little or no difficultydespite being well fitted against the foot or footwear when donned.Furthermore, the sock can also be removed with little or no difficultyfollowing use.

Preferably, the facilitation portion comprises a different material tothe outside surface of the wall.

Advantageously, as well as being easy to don and remove, thefacilitation portion, if located on the inner surface of the wall, maybe a different material to provide other functions. For example, it maybe a soft and absorbent material to provide comfort and absorbperspiration when wearing the sock.

Advantageously, the sock is shaped such that it fits very well over therespective foot that it is intended for, thus improving comfort,functionality and tactile sense.

Advantageously, a single sock can be manufactured to fit either foot,thereby not requiring separate dispensers or dispensing of pairs fromthe one dispenser. Furthermore, if one of a pair of socks was lost ordamaged, only one requires replacement. Furthermore, manufacturing costsare reduced because only one mould is required.

Preferably, the sole portion further comprises an instep portion locatedsubstantially in the mid-region of the sole portion, such that in use,the instep of a user's foot is located substantially over the instepportion of the sole.

Advantageously, the instep portion provides improved ergonomics andcomfort.

Preferably, the opening is large enough for a user to don the sockwithout resistance and the sock includes a fastener adapted to reducethe size of the opening once the sock is donned to secure the sock overthe user's foot.

Preferably, the opening and fastener are adapted such that when the sizeof the opening is reduced, a watertight seal is formed between the sockand the user's foot, ankle or leg.

Advantageously, this makes the sock easier to don over the foot orespecially over footwear. This is especially useful if the sock were tobe donned in conditions that would otherwise be difficult, for example,if the foot or shoe were wet or large.

Preferably, the fastener is a zipper.

Advantageously, this method of fastening is easy for the user to fastenand is repeatable.

Preferably, the fastener is an adhesive.

Advantageously, this method of fastening securely closes the sock.

Preferably, at least two of the ridges are lateral ridges which arelocated at the ball portion of the sole portion and are orientatedlaterally with respect to the sole portion.

Preferably, at least one of the ridges is a centre longitudinal ridgeand is orientated substantially longitudinally with respect to the soleportion.

Preferably, at least one of the ridges is a further longitudinal ridgeand is orientated substantially longitudinally with respect to the soleportion and is in spaced relation to the centre longitudinal ridge.

Preferably, at least one of the lateral ridges is a left lateral ridgeand is located on a left portion of the ball portion and is orientatedat an angle to the centre longitudinal ridge of between 90 degrees and180 degrees.

Preferably, the left lateral ridge is orientated at an angle to thecentre longitudinal ridge of between 110 degrees and 140 degrees.

Preferably, the left lateral ridge is orientated at an angle of about120 degrees to the centre longitudinal ridge.

Preferably, at least one of the lateral ridges is a right lateral ridgeand is located on a right portion of the ball portion and is orientatedat an angle to the centre longitudinal ridge of between minus 90 degreesand minus 180 degrees.

Preferably, the right lateral ridge is orientated at an angle to thecentre longitudinal ridge of between minus 110 degrees and minus 140degrees.

Preferably, the right lateral ridge is orientated at an angle of aboutminus 120 degrees to the centre longitudinal ridge.

Preferably, at least two of the ridges are lateral ridges which arelocated at the heel portion of the sole portion and are orientatedlaterally with respect to the sole portion.

Preferably, at least one of the ridges is a centre longitudinal ridgeand is orientated substantially longitudinally with respect to the soleportion.

Preferably, at least one of the ridges is a further longitudinal ridgeand is orientated substantially longitudinally with respect to the soleportion and is in spaced relation to the centre longitudinal ridge.

Preferably, at least one of the lateral ridges is a left lateral ridgeand is located on a left portion of the heel portion and is orientatedat an angle to the centre longitudinal ridge of between 0 degrees and 90degrees.

Preferably, the left lateral ridge is orientated at an angle to thecentre longitudinal ridge of between 65 degrees and 85 degrees.

Preferably, the left lateral ridge is orientated at an angle of about 75degrees to the centre longitudinal ridge.

Preferably, at least one of the lateral ridges is a right lateral ridgeand is located on a right portion of the heel portion and is orientatedat an angle to the centre longitudinal ridge of between minus 0 degreesand minus 90 degrees.

Preferably, the right lateral ridge is orientated at an angle to thecentre longitudinal ridge of between minus 65 degrees and minus 85degrees.

Preferably, the right lateral ridge is orientated at an angle of aboutminus 75 degrees to the centre longitudinal ridge.

The various arrangements of ridges may provide benefits in relation togrip, engagement with a rough or recessed surface, cushioning and/orcomfort.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of thepresent invention, a preferred embodiment of the invention will now bedescribed, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanyingdrawings in which:

FIG. 1 shows a front perspective view of a sock in accordance with afirst preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 shows a rear perspective view of the sock of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 shows a right side view of the sock of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 shows a left side view of the sock of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 shows a top view of the sock of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 shows a bottom view of the sock of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 shows a front view of the sock of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 shows a rear view of the sock of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 shows front perspective view of a sock in accordance with asecond preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 shows a rear perspective view of the sock of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 shows a right side view of the sock of FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 shows a left side view of the sock of FIG. 9;

FIG. 13 shows a top view of the sock of FIG. 9;

FIG. 14 shows a bottom view of the sock of FIG. 9;

FIG. 15 shows a front view of the sock of FIG. 9; and

FIG. 16 shows a rear view of the sock of FIG. 9.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

It should be appreciated that like reference numbers in differentembodiments refer to the same or similar features.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 16, various types of socks are provided inaccordance with embodiments of the present invention. The socks are tobe worn over a person's feet or footwear for a variety of applicationsand purposes. For example, the socks may be worn to protect the feet orfootwear from water, dirt or other contaminants (e.g. at spill sites orin wet weather), potentially improve slip resistance on slipperysurfaces (e.g. in showers or other wet areas), improve hygiene (e.g. foruse in public facilities) and prevent cross-contamination (e.g. in cleanrooms or surgery rooms). The socks may also serve to protect the surfaceon which the person is treading and its environment from water, dirt orother contaminants that may be located on the person's feet or footwear.

It should be noted that throughout the following description, like orthe same reference numerals in different embodiments denote the same orsimilar parts.

Please note that in the following description, front, rear, left andright correspond to anatomical points of reference.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 8, a first preferred embodiment of the sock 10is shown and comprises a continuous wall 15 that is flexible, elasticand waterproof. The wall 15 defines an opening 20 and a recess 25, suchthat the opening 20 leads to the recess 25. The wall 15 to has an insidesurface 30 and an outside surface 35.

The recess 25 comprises an upright portion 40 and a substantiallyhorizontal portion 45. The opening 20 is located at a top end 50 of theupright portion 40. A bottom end 55 of the upright portion 40 isconnected to a first end 60 of the substantially horizontal portion 45.A second end 65 of the substantially horizontal portion 45 is closed,forming the toe portion 70.

A bottom region of the outside surface 35 forms the sole portion 75. Thesole portion 75 comprises a ball portion 80 and a heel portion 85. Theball portion 80 is located at a front region 86 of the sole portion 75,such that when worn, the ball of a user's foot is located substantiallyover the ball portion 80. The heel portion 85 is located at a rearregion 87 of the sole portion 75, such that when worn, the heel of auser's foot is located substantially over the heel portion 85. The soleportion 75 is generally flat and generally forms the shape of arounded-off sole of a foot, with the front region 86 of the sole portion75 being slightly wider than the rear region 87. A mid-region 88 iscontoured to be relatively narrower than both the front region 86 andthe rear region 87 to accommodate the instep of either foot. The soleportion 75 is located at the base of the substantially horizontalportion 45. The front region 86 of the sole portion 75 curves upwardsslightly to join the toe portion 70 and the heel portion 85 curvesupwards at the rear to join a rear region 89 of the upright portion 40.

The top end 50 of the upright portion 40 is relatively narrower than thebottom end 55 and includes a cuff in the form of a collar 90. The collar90 comprises a series of spaced apart substantially vertical protrudingridges 95 aligned circumferentially around the top end 50 near theopening 20.

A front region 101 of the upright portion 40 commences from the top end50 of the upright portion 40 and slopes downwards to join a top portion105 of the substantially horizontal portion 45, which then joins the toeportion 70. The top portion 105 is generally flat and is similar inshape to the front region 86 of the sole portion 75 such that the topportion 105 and the front region 86 are generally superposed.

A right side region of the outside surface forms a right side portion110 and a left side region of the outside surface forms a left sideportion 115. Both the right side portion 110 and the left side portion115 commence from the top end 50 of the upright portion 40, extend downthe side regions of the upright portion 40, continue along the sideregions of the substantially horizontal portion 45 and join the toeportion 70. The right side portion 110 and the left side portion 115 aregenerally in the shape of a rounded-off profile of the foot, ankle andlower leg.

The front region 86 and the rear region 87 of the sole portion 75include intersecting ridges 120. The intersecting ridges 120 of thefront region 86 comprise front longitudinal ridges 125, four front leftlateral ridges 130, and four front right lateral ridges 135. The frontlongitudinal ridges 125 are spaced apart and orientated substantiallylongitudinally with respect to the sole portion 75. The four front leftlateral ridges 130 are spaced apart and located on a left region of thefront region 86. The four front right lateral ridges 135 are spacedapart and located on a right region of the front region 86.

The front longitudinal ridges 125 comprise seven ridges in total: astraight centre longitudinal ridge 140 and six curved longitudinalridges 145. Three of the six curved longitudinal ridges 145 are locatedto the left of the straight centre longitudinal ridge 140 and three ofthe six curved longitudinal ridges 145 are located to the right of thestraight centre longitudinal ridge 140. The straight centre longitudinalridge 140 is slightly higher than the six curved longitudinal ridges145. The six curved longitudinal ridges 145 are slightly arcuate aroundthe straight centre longitudinal ridge 140, increasing in curvature fromthe centremost to the outermost of the six curved longitudinal ridges145.

Please note that the longitudinal straight centre ridge 140 pointingtowards the toe portion 70 shall be considered hereafter as beingorientated at 0 degrees and rotation in the anti-clockwise directionshall be considered a positive angular displacement per convention.

The four front left lateral ridges 130 are orientated at an angle ofapproximately minus 120 degrees relative to the longitudinal straightcentre ridge 140. The four front left lateral ridges 130 intersect thestraight centre longitudinal ridge 140 at their foremost ends and alsointersect the three of the six curved longitudinal ridges 145 located tothe left of the straight centre longitudinal ridge 140. The four frontleft lateral ridges 130 are substantially parallel.

The four front right lateral ridges 135 are orientated at an angle ofapproximately 120 degrees relative to the longitudinal straight centreridge 140. The four front right lateral ridges 135 intersect thestraight centre longitudinal ridge 140 at their foremost ends and alsointersect the three of the six curved longitudinal ridges 145 located tothe right of the straight centre longitudinal ridge 140. The four frontright lateral ridges 130 are substantially parallel.

The four front left lateral ridges 130 mirror the four front rightlateral ridges 135 where the straight centre longitudinal ridge 140 isthe axis of symmetry. Respective ones of the four front left lateralridges 130 connect with respective ones of the four front right lateralridges 135 at the straight centre longitudinal ridge 140.

In another embodiment, the four front left lateral ridges 130 areorientated at an angle of between minus 90 and minus 180 degrees, andthe four front right lateral ridges 135 are orientated at an angle ofbetween 90 and 180 degrees, such that the four front left lateral ridges130 mirror the four front right lateral ridges 135 where the straightcentre longitudinal ridge 140 is the axis of symmetry.

In another embodiment, the four front left lateral ridges 130 areorientated at an angle of between minus 110 and minus 130 degrees, andthe four front right lateral ridges 135 are orientated at an angle ofbetween 110 and 130 degrees, such that the four front left lateralridges 130 mirror the four front right lateral ridges 135 where thestraight centre longitudinal ridge 140 is the axis of symmetry.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 8, the intersecting ridges 120 of the rearregion 87 comprise rear longitudinal ridges 150, two rear left lateralridges 155 and two rear right lateral ridges 160. The rear longitudinalridges 150 are spaced apart and orientated substantially longitudinallywith respect to the sole portion 75. The rear longitudinal ridges 150comprise five ridges in total: a rear straight centre longitudinal ridge170 and four curved longitudinal ridges 175. Two of the four curvedlongitudinal ridges 175 are located to the left of the rear straightcentre longitudinal ridge 170 and two of the four curved longitudinalridges 175 are located to the right of the rear straight centrelongitudinal ridge 170. The four curved longitudinal ridges 175 areslightly arcuate around the rear straight centre longitudinal ridge 170.

Please note that the rear straight centre longitudinal ridge 170pointing towards the toe portion 70 shall be considered hereafter asbeing orientated at 0 degrees and rotation in the anti-clockwisedirection shall be considered a positive angular displacement perconvention.

The two rear left lateral ridges 155 are orientated at approximatelyminus 75 degrees relative to the rear straight centre longitudinal ridge170. The two rear left lateral ridges 155 intersect the rear straightcentre longitudinal ridge 170 at their rearmost ends. The two rear leftlateral ridges 155 also intersect the two of the four curvedlongitudinal ridges 175 located to the left of the rear straight centrelongitudinal ridge 170.

The two rear right lateral ridges 160 are orientated approximately 75degrees relative to the rear straight centre longitudinal ridge 170. Thetwo rear right lateral ridges 160 intersect the rear straight centrelongitudinal ridge 170 at their rearmost ends. The two rear rightlateral ridges 160 also intersect the two of the four curvedlongitudinal ridges 175 located to the right of the rear straight centrelongitudinal ridge 170.

The two rear left lateral ridges 155 mirror the two rear right lateralridges 160 where the rear straight centre longitudinal ridge 170 is theaxis of symmetry. Respective ones of the rear left lateral ridges 155connect with respective ones of the rear right lateral ridges 160 at thestraight centre longitudinal ridge 140.

The mid-region 88 of the sole portion 75 includes a recessed portion 180located within the boundaries of the contours of the mid-region 88,approximately following the shape of the contours.

In another embodiment, the three rear left lateral ridges 155 areorientated at an angle between 0 and minus 90 degrees, and the threerear right lateral ridges 160 are orientated at an angle between 0 and90 degrees, such that the three rear left lateral ridges 155 mirror thethree rear right lateral ridges 160 where the centre longitudinal ridge170 is the axis of symmetry.

In another embodiment, the three rear left lateral ridges 155 areorientated at an angle between minus 65 and minus 85 degrees, and thethree rear right lateral ridges 160 are orientated at an angle between65 and 85 degrees, such that the three rear left lateral ridges 155mirror the three rear right lateral ridges 160 where the centrelongitudinal ridge 170 is the axis of symmetry. The wall 15 forms alayer between the user's foot or footwear and the outside environment.The elasticity of the wall 15 allows the user to don the sock 10, andafter donned, for the sock 10 to be well fitted against the user's footor footwear. It also functions to keep the sock 10 on the foot orfootwear, and to allow the opening 20 to form a watertight seal aroundthe lower leg, ankle or foot in use. The elasticity and flexibility ofthe wall 15 makes the sock 10 more comfortable and less restrictive inmotion. The waterproof property of the wall 15 allows it to be used toprotect the foot against water, dirt and other contaminants or toprotect clean surfaces from water, dirt and other contaminants that maybe located on the foot or footwear.

The substantially horizontal portion 45 of the sock is intended tocontain the foot or the footwear of the user in use, and the uprightportion 40 extends up past the ankle to the lower leg of the user inuse. The toe portion 70 is intended to contain the toes of the user inuse. The sole portion 75 is the portion of the sock that contacts thesurface on which the user treads. The sole portion 75 is generallyshaped like a rounded-off sole of the foot and is slightly curved toproperly accommodate the shape of the user's foot and confer comfort andstability to the user in use.

The narrowing of the upright portion 40 towards the top end 50 allowsthe opening 20 to form a watertight seal with the lower leg, ankle orfoot in use and to keep the sock in position during use. The cuff takesthe form of a collar 90 and the ridges 95 thereon function to furtherrestrict and provide a ring of less elasticity at the opening of thesock for the same purposes.

The generally flat top portion 105 of the substantially horizontalportion 45 mimics the generally flat area of the top of a person's footand the right side portion 110 and the left side portion 115 both mimicthe shape of the side of a person's foot.

The ridges 120 may provide additional grip with the surfaces on whichthe user treads. If the surface has small crevices, cracks orunevenness, the ridges 120 mechanically engage with the crevices, cracksor unevenness. For example, on a tiled surface such as can be found inbathrooms and showers, the ridges 120 may slot into the crevices betweenthe tiles, and hence provide traction. The longitudinal ridges provide alarge amount of traction in the lateral directions. Furthermore, theorientation of ridges 120 in more than one direction allows the sock toprovide traction in multiple directions, and also increases thelikelihood that the ridges 120 mechanically engage with crevices in thesurface on which the user treads.

The recessed portion 180 located in the mid-region 88 of the sole 75provides greater flexibility and mobility to the arch of the foot, whichis substantially located over that region in use.

Advantageously, the upright portion 40 of the sock 10 may be provided atdifferent heights to cover greater or lesser amounts of the lower limbof the user. For example, if the sock were intended to be used to covera boot, providing a tall upright portion ensures that the entire boot iscontained within the sock and hence protected. The opening 20 can alsocontact the user's skin to form a watertight seal in use. If the sockwere intended to be used to potentially improve grip or reduce the riskof slippage, then the sock could have a short upright portion allowingmore of the leg to be exposed, for greater comfort.

The watertight seal created at the opening prevents the user's foot fromcoming into contact with water, vapour or other contaminants which mayotherwise enter the sock 10 through the opening 20. Furthermore, thisprotects the inside surface of the sock from becoming slippery oruncomfortable, which may occur if contaminants enter the sock throughthe opening.

Advantageously, mimicking the natural shape of the foot, ankle and lowerleg allows the sock to be better and more securely fitted to the user'sfoot, thus providing greater comfort and functionality.

Advantageously, the slip-reducing portions may provide extra gripagainst the surface on which the user treads and may reduce the dangerof slipping and/or falling. This is especially advantageous if theenvironment is hazardous to the user or if the user is likely to beinjured as a result of falling, for example, if there is furniturenearby or there are sharp objects on the ground. The ridges 120 are aneasily manufactured way of providing slip-resistance.

Furthermore, the location of the ridges on the portions of the sock thatcome into contact with the surface on which the user is treadingprovides added traction if the surface has small crevices, cracks orunevenness, as the ridges mechanically engage with the crevices, cracksor unevenness. An example of such a surface is a tiled surface such ascan be found in bathrooms and showers. In this case, the ridges may slotinto the crevices between the tiles.

Advantageously, the ridges 120 are provided on the sole portion 75 asthis is the portion of the sock 10 that comes into contact with thesurface on which the user treads. More specifically, the ridges 120 areprovided on the ball portion 80 and the heel portion 85. These areportions of the sock covering the portions of the user's foot on whichthe user places the most weight and utilizes to maintain balance,stability and mobility, and thus require the most friction with thesurface on which the user treads.

Referring to the second preferred embodiment of the sock 10′ of FIGS. 9to 16, the front region 86′ and the rear region 87′ of the sole portion75′ include intersecting ridges 120′. The intersecting ridges 120′ ofthe front region 86′ comprise front longitudinal ridges 125′, four frontleft lateral ridges 130′, and four front right lateral ridges 135′. Thefront longitudinal ridges 125′ are spaced apart and orientatedsubstantially longitudinally with respect to the sole portion 75′. Thefour front left lateral ridges 130′ are spaced apart and located on theleft region of the front region 86′. The four front right lateral ridges135′ are spaced apart and located on the right region of the frontregion 86′.

The front longitudinal ridges 125′ comprise seven ridges in total: astraight centre longitudinal ridge 140′ and six curved longitudinalridges 145′. Three of the six curved longitudinal ridges 145′ arelocated to the left of the straight centre longitudinal ridge 140′ andthree of the six curved longitudinal ridges 145′ are located to theright of the straight centre longitudinal ridge 140′. The straightcentre longitudinal ridge 140′ is slightly higher than the six curvedlongitudinal ridges 145′. The six curved longitudinal ridges 145′ areslightly arcuate around the straight centre longitudinal ridge 140′,increasing in curvature from the centremost to the outermost of the sixcurved longitudinal ridges 145′.

Please note that the longitudinal straight centre ridge 140′ pointingtowards the toe portion 70′ shall be considered hereafter as beingorientated at 0 degrees and rotation in the anti-clockwise directionshall be considered a positive angular displacement per convention.

The four front left lateral ridges 130′ are orientated at an angle ofapproximately minus 120 degrees relative to the longitudinal straightcentre ridge 140′. The four front left lateral ridges 130′ intersect thestraight centre longitudinal ridge 140′ at their foremost ends and alsointersect the three of the six curved longitudinal ridges 145′ locatedto the left of the straight centre longitudinal ridge 140′. The fourfront left lateral ridges 130′ are substantially parallel.

The four front right lateral ridges 135′ are orientated at an angle ofapproximately 120 degrees relative to the longitudinal straight centreridge 140′. The four front right lateral ridges 135′ intersect thestraight centre longitudinal ridge 140′ at their foremost ends and alsointersect the three of the six curved longitudinal ridges 145′ locatedto the right of the straight centre longitudinal ridge 140′. The fourfront right lateral ridges 135′ are substantially parallel.

The four front left lateral ridges 130′ mirror the four front rightlateral ridges 135′ where the straight centre longitudinal ridge 140′ isthe axis of symmetry. Respective ones of the four front left lateralridges 130′ connect with respective ones of the four front right lateralridges 135′ at the straight centre longitudinal ridge 140′.

In another embodiment, the four front left lateral ridges 130′ areorientated at an angle of between minus 90 and minus 180 degrees, andthe four front right lateral ridges 135′ are orientated at an angle ofbetween 90 and 180 degrees, such that the four front left lateral ridges130′ mirror the four front right lateral ridges 135′ where the straightcentre longitudinal ridge 140′ is the axis of symmetry.

In another embodiment, the four front left lateral ridges 130′ areorientated at an angle of between minus 110 and minus 130 degrees, andthe four front right lateral ridges 135′ are orientated at an angle ofbetween 110 and 130 degrees, such that the four front left lateralridges 130′ mirror the four front right lateral ridges 135′ where thestraight centre longitudinal ridge 140′ is the axis of symmetry.

Referring to the embodiment of FIGS. 9 to 16, the intersecting ridges120′ of the rear region 87′ comprise rear longitudinal ridges 150′,three rear left lateral ridges 155′, three rear right lateral ridges160′, a left peripheral curved ridge 165′ and a right peripheral curvedridge 166′. The rear longitudinal ridges 150′ are spaced apart andorientated substantially longitudinally with respect to the sole portion75′. The rear longitudinal ridges 150′ comprise five ridges in total: arear straight centre longitudinal ridge 170′ and four curvedlongitudinal ridges 175′. Two of the four curved longitudinal ridges175′ are located to the left of the rear straight centre longitudinalridge 170′ and two of the four curved longitudinal ridges 175′ arelocated to the right of the rear straight centre longitudinal ridge170′. The four curved longitudinal ridges 175′ are slightly angledrelative to the rear straight centre longitudinal ridge 170′ such thatthe foremost point of each of the four lateral longitudinal ridges 175′is located relatively closer to the rear straight centre longitudinalridge 170′ than the rearmost point.

Please note that the rear straight centre longitudinal ridge 170′pointing towards the toe portion 70′ shall be considered hereafter asbeing orientated at 0 degrees and rotation in the anti-clockwisedirection shall be considered a positive angular displacement perconvention.

The three rear left lateral ridges 155′ are orientated at approximatelyminus 75′ degrees relative to the rear straight centre longitudinalridge 170′. The three rear left lateral ridges 155′ intersect the rearstraight centre longitudinal ridge 170′ at their rearmost ends, and thetwo of the four curved longitudinal ridges 175′ located to the left ofthe rear straight centre longitudinal ridge 170′.

The three rear right lateral ridges 160′ are orientated approximately 75degrees relative to the rear straight centre longitudinal ridge 170′.The three rear right lateral ridges 160′ intersect the rear straightcentre longitudinal ridge 170′ at their rearmost ends, and the two ofthe four curved longitudinal ridges 175′ located to the right of therear straight centre longitudinal ridge 170′.

The three rear left lateral ridges 155′ mirror the three right lateralridges where the rear straight centre longitudinal ridge 170′ is theaxis of symmetry. Respective ones of the rear left lateral ridges 155′connect with respective ones of the rear right lateral ridges 160′ atthe straight centre longitudinal ridge 140′.

The peripheral curved ridges 165′ and 166′ are orientated substantiallylongitudinally with respect to the sole portion 75′. The left peripheralcurved ridge 165′ mirrors the right peripheral curved ridge 166′ aboutthe centre longitudinal ridge 170′. Only the foremost of the rear leftlateral ridges 155′ and the foremost of the rear right lateral ridges160′ intersect the two peripheral curved ridges 165′.

In another embodiment, the three rear left lateral ridges 155′ areorientated at an angle between 0 and minus 90 degrees, and the threerear right lateral ridges 160′ are orientated at an angle between 0 and90 degrees, such that the three rear left lateral ridges 155′ mirror thethree rear right lateral ridges 160′ where the centre longitudinal ridge170′ is the axis of symmetry.

In another embodiment, the three rear left lateral ridges 155′ areorientated at an angle between minus 65 and minus 85 degrees, and thethree rear right lateral ridges 160′ are orientated at an angle between65 and 85 degrees, such that the three rear left lateral ridges 155′mirror the three rear right lateral ridges 160′ where the centrelongitudinal ridge 170′ is the axis of symmetry.

For embodiments where different socks are provided for each foot: for aright foot sock, the left side of the toe portion 70′ is relatively moreelongated than the right side for a better fit and for a left foot sock,the right side of the toe portion 70′ is relatively more elongated thatthe left side for a better fit.

The outside surface 35′ is embossed in and continuously through thefollowing regions 185′:

-   -   The toe portion 70′, extending substantially into the top        portion 105′ of the substantially horizontal portion 45′ and up        a front region 101′ of the upright portion 40′ in the shape of        two prongs;    -   The sole region 75′ (except for the recessed portion 180′        located in the mid-region 88′); and    -   The heel portion 85′ and extending up a rear region 89′ of the        upright portion 40′ in the shape of two prongs.

In an alternative embodiment, the regions 185′ are comprised ofrelatively thicker material and thus are relatively more durable andprovide a cushioning effect for the user, increasing comfort.

Advantageously, manufacturing regions of the wall 15′ to be relativelymore durable (on regions of the sock that encounters the most wear)reduces the likelihood of the wall rupturing with wear, allowing thesock to be used in applications wherein the sock is likely to encountera high rate of wear, for example on rough surfaces, such as aconstruction site, or to cover shoes or boots that are rough or sharp.

In one embodiment, the sock 10 or 10′ may be made in the shape of theleft or right foot to improve comfort, functionality and tactile sense.

While the invention has been described with reference to a number ofpreferred embodiments it should be appreciated that the invention can beembodied in many other forms. For example, any of the following wallproperties could be included as variations:

-   -   high tensile strength    -   electrically non-conductive    -   chemical resistant (mild acids, alkalines, common cleaners,        biohazards, animal proteins and human proteins)    -   cold resistant    -   thermal resistant    -   UV resistant    -   abrasion resistant (protecting from rough terrain, sharps, dry        particulates)    -   oil and grease resistant    -   biodegradability

The sock can be adapted for use in a variety of situations including:

-   -   health care (e.g. operating theatres, pathology laboratories,        aged care, public facilities, food preparation areas, laundry        areas, cleaning)    -   commercial use (e.g. police work, forensic laboratories,        engineering or construction site visits, food inspections,        farming, veterinary work)    -   domestic use (e.g. gardening, cleaning, indoors, outdoors)    -   recreational activities (e.g. sports, swimming pools, fishing)    -   tourism (e.g. to protect historically important flooring while        allowing a person to stand on the flooring and so to view it        closely)

In one embodiment, the wall comprises latex, latex hardening agent,colour and ammonia.

In another embodiment, the sock is manufactured by brushing a latexmixture over a mould. In another embodiment, the sock is manufactured bya variable dipping process.

In one embodiment, the sock is manufactured from a material that doesnot attract lint.

In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of theinvention, except where the context requires otherwise due to expresslanguage or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variationssuch as “comprises” or “comprising” are used in an inclusive sense, i.e.to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude thepresence or addition of further features in various embodiments of theinvention.

A sock is any type of footwear that surrounds or protects at least partof a user's foot and may take the form of shoes, boots or stockings.

1. A sock for substantially covering a foot or footwear comprising awall defining an opening and a recess, the opening leading to therecess, the wall having an inside surface and an outside surface,wherein the wall is flexible, elastic and waterproof and wherein abottom region of the outside surface of the wall comprises a soleportion, the sole portion comprising a ball portion and a heel portion,such that in use the ball of a user's foot is located substantially overthe ball portion, and the heel of a user's foot is located substantiallyover the heel portion and wherein the wall includes a plurality ofridges and at least one of the plurality of ridges is located on thesole portion and at least two of the ridges intersect.
 2. A sock asclaimed in claim 1, wherein the wall is made from one or more materials.3. A sock as claimed in claim 2, wherein the one or more materialsinclude substantially natural rubber latex.
 4. A sock as claimed inclaim 2, wherein the one or more materials include substantiallysynthetic rubber latex.
 5. A sock as claimed in claim 2, wherein the oneor more materials include substantially a solution of rubber.
 6. A sockas claimed in claim 2, wherein the one or more materials includesubstantially virgin polyvinyl chloride.
 7. A sock as claimed in claim1, wherein the wall can be sterilized substantially without damaging theone or more materials.
 8. A sock as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wallinsulates.
 9. A sock as claimed in claim 1, wherein wall is chemicalresistant.
 10. A sock as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wall is UVresistant.
 11. A sock as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wall iselectrically non-conductive.
 12. A sock as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe wall provides improved grip.
 13. A sock as claimed in claim 1,wherein the wall is biodegradable.
 14. A sock as claimed in claim 1,wherein the thickness of the wall is between 0.05 mm and 5 mm.
 15. Asock as claimed in claim 14, wherein the thickness of the wall isbetween 0.17 mm to 2.09 mm.
 16. A sock as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe opening is adapted to form a watertight seal against the user'sfoot, ankle or leg in use.
 17. A sock as claimed in claim 16, whereinthe opening comprises a cuff adapted to form a watertight seal againstthe user's foot, ankle or leg in use.
 18. A sock as claimed in claim 17,wherein the cuff comprises a gathered collar. 19-20. (canceled)
 21. Asock as claimed in claim 1, wherein the recess comprises an uprightportion and a substantially horizontal portion, the opening beinglocated at a top end of the upright portion, a bottom end of the uprightportion being connected to a first end of the substantially horizontalportion and a second end of the substantially horizontal portion beingclosed.
 22. A sock as claimed in claim 21, wherein the second end of thesubstantially horizontal portion includes a toe portion adapted toreceive the user's toes. 23-29. (canceled)
 30. A sock as claimed inclaim 1, wherein the wall includes one or more durable portions adaptedto be relatively more durable than the surrounding wall regions.
 31. Asock as claimed in claim 30, wherein the one or more durable portionshave a greater thickness than the surrounding wall region.
 32. A sock asclaimed in claim 30, wherein at least one of the one or more durableportions is located on the sole portion.
 33. A sock as claimed in claim30, wherein at least one of the one or more durable portions is locatedon the toe portion.
 34. A sock as claimed in claim 30, wherein at leastone of the one or more durable portions is located on the heel portion.35. A sock as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wall includes one or moreflexible portions adapted to be more flexible than the surrounding wallregion.
 36. A sock as claimed in claim 35, wherein at least one of theone or more flexible portions surrounds the opening.
 37. A sock asclaimed in claim 35, wherein at least one of the one or more flexibleportions is located at the toe portion.
 38. A sock as claimed in claim35, wherein at least one of the one or more flexible portions is locatedat the heel portion.
 39. A sock as claimed in claim 1, comprising afacilitation portion that is adapted to facilitate donning
 40. A sock asclaimed in claim 39, wherein the facilitation portion comprises adifferent material to the outside surface of the wall.
 41. A sock asclaimed in claim 1, wherein the sock is adapted to be worn over eitherthe left or right foot.
 42. A sock as claimed in claim 1, wherein thesole portion further comprises an instep portion located substantiallyin the mid-region of the sole portion, such that in use, the instep of auser's foot is located substantially over the instep portion of thesole.
 43. A sock as claimed in claim 1, wherein the opening is largeenough for a user to don the sock without resistance and the sockincludes a fastener adapted to reduce the size of the opening once thesock is donned to secure the sock over the user's foot.
 44. A sock asclaimed in claim 43, wherein the opening and fastener are adapted suchthat when the size of the opening is reduced, a watertight seal isformed between the sock and the user's foot, ankle or leg.
 45. A sock asclaimed in claim 43, wherein the fastener is a zipper.
 46. A sock asclaimed in claim 43, wherein the fastener is an adhesive. 47-48.(canceled)
 49. A sock as claimed in claim 1, wherein the width of theridges is between 0.5 mm and 10 mm.
 50. A sock as claimed in claim 49,wherein the width of the ridges is between 2.1 mm and 4.3 mm
 51. A sockas claimed in claim 1, wherein the height of the ridges is between 0.5mm and 10 mm.
 52. A sock as claimed in claim 51, wherein the height ofthe ridges is between 2 mm and 3.6 mm.
 53. A sock as claimed in claim 1,wherein at least two of the ridges are lateral ridges which are locatedat the ball portion of the sole portion and are orientated laterallywith respect to the sole portion.
 54. A sock as claimed in claim 53,wherein at least one of the ridges is a centre longitudinal ridge and isorientated substantially longitudinally with respect to the soleportion.
 55. A sock as claimed in claim 54, wherein at least one of theridges is a further longitudinal ridge and is orientated substantiallylongitudinally with respect to the sole portion and is in spacedrelation to the centre longitudinal ridge.
 56. A sock as claimed inclaim 54, wherein at least one of the lateral ridges is a left lateralridge and is located on a left portion of the ball portion and isorientated at an angle to the centre longitudinal ridge of between 90degrees and 180 degrees.
 57. A sock as claimed in claim 56, wherein theleft lateral ridge is orientated at an angle to the centre longitudinalridge of between 110 degrees and 140 degrees.
 58. A sock as claimed inclaim 57, wherein the left lateral ridge is orientated at an angle ofabout 120 degrees to the centre longitudinal ridge.
 59. A sock asclaimed in claim 53, wherein at least one of the lateral ridges is aright lateral ridge and is located on a right portion of the ballportion and is orientated at an angle to the centre longitudinal ridgeof between minus 90 degrees and minus 180 degrees.
 60. A sock as claimedin claim 59, wherein the right lateral ridge is orientated at an angleto the centre longitudinal ridge of between minus 110 degrees and minus140 degrees.
 61. A sock as claimed in claim 60, wherein the rightlateral ridge is orientated at an angle of about minus 120 degrees tothe centre longitudinal ridge.
 62. A sock as claimed in claim 1, whereinat least two of the ridges are lateral ridges which are located at theheel portion of the sole portion and are orientated laterally withrespect to the sole portion.
 63. A sock as claimed in claim 62, whereinat least one of the ridges is a centre longitudinal ridge and isorientated substantially longitudinally with respect to the soleportion.
 64. A sock as claimed in claim 63, wherein at least one of theridges is a further longitudinal ridge and is orientated substantiallylongitudinally with respect to the sole portion and is in spacedrelation to the centre longitudinal ridge.
 65. A sock as claimed inclaim 63, wherein at least one of the lateral ridges is a left lateralridge and is located on a left portion of the heel portion and isorientated at an angle to the centre longitudinal ridge of between 0degrees and 90 degrees.
 66. A sock as claimed in claim 65, wherein theleft lateral ridge is orientated at an angle to the centre longitudinalridge of between 65 degrees and 85 degrees.
 67. A sock as claimed inclaim 66, wherein the left lateral ridge is orientated at an angle ofabout 75 degrees to the centre longitudinal ridge.
 68. A sock as claimedin claim 63, wherein at least one of the lateral ridges is a rightlateral ridge and is located on a right portion of the heel portion andis orientated at an angle to the centre longitudinal ridge of betweenminus 0 degrees and minus 90 degrees.
 69. A sock as claimed in claim 68,wherein the right lateral ridge is orientated at an angle to the centrelongitudinal ridge of between minus 65 degrees and minus 85 degrees. 70.A sock as claimed in claim 69, wherein the right lateral ridge isorientated at an angle of about minus 75 degrees to the centrelongitudinal ridge.
 71. (canceled)